Nollywood has built a reputation for weaving tales of love, betrayal, and survival, and Devil Is a Liar, which premiered on Netflix on August 15, 2025, is no exception. Directed by Moses Inwang and written by Tunde Babalola, this suspense-filled drama brings together some of the industry’s finest actors, including Nse Ikpe-Etim, James Gardiner, Nancy Isime, Erica Nlewedim, Mercy Aigbe, and Tina Mba.
A Familiar Yet Gripping Plot
Set in Lagos, the film tells the story of Adaora, a wealthy, accomplished woman whose only missing piece is love. When she meets Jaiye, a charming younger stylist, sparks fly. Despite the age difference and raised eyebrows, she marries him, investing heavily in his fashion dreams and building a family she desperately yearns for.
But what starts as a fairytale quickly turns sinister. Jaiye’s insecurities and hidden agenda lead him to manipulate Adaora, pressure her into terminating pregnancies, and exploit her financially. When tragedy strikes with the loss of their daughter and Adaora faces imprisonment, Jaiye fakes his own death, leaving a trail of betrayal. The film climaxes with Adaora’s confrontation of her once-beloved husband, living up to the haunting title: Devil Is a Liar.
The Strength of Performances
The standout performance is undoubtedly from Nse Ikpe-Etim, who embodies Adaora with depth, vulnerability, and quiet strength. Her portrayal anchors the film, making the character’s heartbreak and resilience resonate with viewers. The supporting cast, from Nancy Isime’s vibrant presence to Tina Mba’s matriarchal gravitas, enriches the narrative.
Unfortunately, the movie struggles where it matters most, which is the heart of the love story. The chemistry between Nse Ikpe-Etim and James Gardiner (Jaiye) is unconvincing, and Gardiner’s character feels underdeveloped. The script leans too much on melodramatic shortcuts and implausible twists, leaving the story both predictable and unrealistic.
Devil Is a Liar had the potential to be a memorable drama but instead falls into the trap of overused Nollywood formulas. Nse Ikpe-Etim’s stellar performance is the saving grace, yet it isn’t enough to rescue the film from its weak writing and unconvincing central relationship.
My Rating: 5/10
Watchable, but average. A film that proves talent can shine, but poor storytelling will always hold a project back.
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